Service-Learning Graduation Requirement

The SALT Program is a comprehensive plan to integrate service-learning into the educational experience of traditional undergraduate students at LipscombUniversity. A strategy for developmentally enhancing student learning, The SALT Program allows students to connect their academic experience and spiritual development with significant engagement in the community.

Because Lipscomb expects its students to engage in innovative and rigorous academic experiences, and because of the shared belief that a Christ-like attitude calls for service to others, traditional undergraduate students will be expected to complete two service-learning experiences before graduation. No more than one experience can come from Tier I. At least one experience must come from Tier II or Tier III. These experiences will contribute to the student’s development academically, personally/spiritually and civically.

Transfer Students

Transfer students entering Lipscomb in fall 2008 and after with more than 90 hours will be required to complete one SALT enhanced course, mission trip, internship, or cooperative before graduation. Transfer students entering Lipscomb with less than 90 hours will be responsible for completing two SALT experiences. It may be possible to transfer credit for SALT experiences. Contact Christin Shatzer, Director of Service-Learning, at Christin.Shatzer@lipscomb.edu for more information.

Adult degree and second degree students are not subject to the SALT graduation requirement. Additionally, students enrolled at Lipscomb University prior to fall 2008 are not subject to the SALT graduation requirement.

SALT Scholar

Students interested in going beyond the basic service-learning graduation requirement will be given the opportunity to attain the distinction of SALT Scholar. The SALT Scholar is a student who has become an expert in service-learning in the context of Lipscomb University, and whose investment in service-learning reflects a significant level of engagement. SALT Scholars will receive special distinction at graduation and on their academic transcript.

SALT enhanced courses will be given a special service-learning designation in the undergraduate catalog. Students will learn about other SALT enhanced experiences through The SALT Center, campus-wide communication, the Student Missions office, or through their major area of study. To learn about SALT enhanced courses being offered this semester, click here.

More information is available by contacting Christin Shatzer, Director of Service-Learning.